Research Whale Sharks in Mozambique

The largest extant species of fish on the planet is now endangered, in large part due to the devastating effects of industrial fishing and pollution on the global whale shark population. The coast of Mozambique, known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, has recently become a haven for divers eager to witness these docile giants and experience the region’s abundance of marine life. While volunteering at the Marine Research and Conservation Project, volunteers will have the opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks and collect valuable data that will help conserve Mozambique's diverse marine ecosystem. Included in the program is a four-day open water diving course that will prepare volunteers to monitor the coral reefs and safely use diving equipment. Volunteers will carry out essential functions in marine research and conservation, participating in beach walks, boat surveys and dives alongside coordinating scientists. Aside from conducting research, volunteers will also learn about whale sharks and the effects of human activity on their ecosystem, and help spread awareness about the importance of conservation efforts in the area. During the project volunteers will reside in Tofo, a coastal town in southeastern Mozambique known for its snorkeling, which offers a wide array of activities for volunteers to spend their free time on — including sailing, fishing and eating at local seafood restaurants.

This 3-12 week experience costs $3,619 for 3 weeks and $9,643 for 12 weeks, and includes accommodations, meals, a scuba diving certification training program, 24/7 on-site support and some activities. Volunteers with diving experience may be eligible for discounts and may stay for a minimum of 2 weeks if they do not wish to participate in the diving certification program.

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KAYA

Ski Down the Slopes of the Koh e Baba in Afghanistan

High above sea level in Afghanistan’s Bamiyan province stands the majestic Koh-e Baba range, rising nearly 16,700 feet above sea level at its tallest peak. Travelers on this trip will not only be able to safely travel through Afghanistan, a nation which has been wracked by violent conflict over the last three decades, but also experience the incredible skiing that its mountains have to offer. Upon arriving in Peshawar, a small town in the Nuristan Province of Afghanistan, travelers will submit visas and tour the local area before spending the night. The next day, the group will drive to Islamabad and then fly to Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan which is nearly 3,500 years old and was used throughout history as a strategic destination on the Silk Road. On the third day, travelers will drive to Bamiyan and tour the caves which enclosed two 6th-century Buddha statues, one being 125 feet tall and the other 180 feet tall. The colossi themselves were unfortunately destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, but it is still possible to see the indentations where they once stood, as well as to explore the monastic caves and passages nearby. Over the next five days, travelers will have the opportunity to ski the slopes of the Koh-e Baba mountain range, all while accompanied by international and local ski guides and interacting with the local Afghan people. The climax of the trip will be the annual ski race in Bamiyan, which travelers will be able to witness on the ninth day. Finally, the group will travel back to Kabul and spend a day visiting the city’s most enticing attractions before returning home.

This trip lasts for 10 days and starts at $2,850. It is organized by Untamed Borders, a travel company offering small group tours to some of the world’s most inaccessible places. The price includes all accommodations, some meals, ground transportation, the flight from Islamabad to Kabul and guiding.

Run The Erbil Marathon in Iraq

The Erbil Marathon in the capital city of Iraqi Kurdistan is an annual international sporting event created to promote peace, love and non violence in Iraq. It has helped to create powerful connections to international partners for the people of Iraq who are committed to finding peace and justice for their country. All three marathons at the event are open to both men and women, going against traditional Iraqi oppression in Iraqi women’s sports. There is a full marathon, 10k and 5k run, so travelers looking to participate do not have to be experienced runners to be involved. 

Travelers who attend this trip from Untamed Borders will even be given the opportunity to train with both male and female runners. The trip lasts six days, costs $1450 will cover all expenses, plus entry to the marathon. 

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UNTAMED BORDERS

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Volunteer With Marine Conservation in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef, located just off the coast of Queensland, Australia is considered to be one of the most diverse and spectacular marine features in the world. However, the Great Barrier Reef is also under immense threat. Climate change is threatening the future of the reef, and all the species that call it home. Yet, there is still a lot that humans can do to protect this pristine underwater environment. This volunteer opportunity brings travelers to Cairns in the north of Queensland. Once there, volunteers begin their marine conservation project where they will collect data on the reef, gather marine debris and help rehabilitate sea turtles. All these efforts contribute to research on the Great Barrier Reef, as well as help to protect Earth’s great wonders. 

This volunteer opportunity is offered by International Volunteer HQ. Packages are offered at either 1 or 2 weeks of volunteering, with one week costing $1,010 per person. Volunteers must be adept at swimming in the ocean. International Volunteer HQ focuses on providing volunteer travel opportunities around the world by partnering with local community organizations focused on long-term positive impacts.  

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IVHQ

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Coach Soccer in the Dominican Republic

The sport of soccer—or rather football, as it’s known all over the world—is a shared cultural facet of many countries. In places like the Dominican Republic, it is intertwined with the local culture and national identity. In the town of Samaná, Dominican Republic, volunteers with an interest in the sport can work at a local summer camp built around football. The “Football for Peace” summer camp invites volunteers to train, coach and even partake in soccer matches with Samaná’s local football club. When not on the field, volunteers will support the camp and the town through community service. 

This volunteering trip is offered by Aldeas de Paz. Packages start at a minimum of 2 weeks for $799 with basic accommodations. Volunteers can stay for up to 5 weeks. Fundación Aldeas de Paz is a nonprofit organization that offers volunteer travel opportunities in the Domican Republic. 

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Aldeas de Paz

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Dive to Keep Belize’s Marine Habitat Pristine

Off the coast of Belize, volunteers with a passion for marine conservation can remove invasive species of fish and clear out plastic waste to keep the country’s waters healthy. Once travelers arrive in the village of Placencia along Belize’s southern coast, they are taken to a small private island where they can partake in up to three conservation dives. For those who aren’t experienced divers, the program offers PADI Open Water training to become diver-certified. On weekends, travelers can head back to Placencia and from there explore the rest of Belize. In 2019, volunteers were able to remove 7,841 invasive lionfish, carry away 11,645 pounds of waste and hatch 454 baby turtles.

This experience is organized by GoEco and costs $1,150 for one week. Volunteers can extend the program for up to eight weeks. The PADI Open Water course is an additional $150.

Teach Soccer to Children in Ghana

Ghana, located along the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, used to be known as the “Gold Coast” for its mineral riches. The capital of Accra is known for its vibrant beaches and markets, incredible food and its wonderful music scene. However, Ghana is still home to many disadvantaged populations and volunteering can be one way to have an impactful experience. One possible trip includes coaching soccer to help develop sports skills for teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds. As long as you are passionate about soccer and love working with young adults, this volunteer trip is right for you.

This volunteer opportunity is located in Accra with working days from Tuesday to Saturday to incorporate weekend games. Off days can be used to explore the city, get to know other volunteers and spend time with your host family. Most work will be done in the afternoons when students can visit the soccer club after school; however, there will be meetings earlier in the day to discuss coaching strategies. The trip is a great opportunity to help students improve their health and fitness, develop motor skills, and learn life skills such as teamwork and discipline. This one-week minimum volunteering experience is run by Projects Abroad, a travel company that aims to create sustainable and impactful trips overseas. One week of volunteering costs $2,270 and volunteering is possible for as little as one week to as long as a year. Start dates are very flexible and the trip itself requires a short application.

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Projects Abroad

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Find an Adrenaline Rush in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a prime destination for adventure seekers due to its rich biodiversity, varied landscapes, and commitment to eco-tourism.  The country offers a wide range of adventure sports, including zip-lining, white-water rafting, canyoning, and waterfall rappelling. Costa Rica is not only an adventure hub, but also an ideal destination for relaxation, offering serene environments and numerous wellness opportunities. This includes hot springs, beaches, wellness retreats, eco-lodges, rainforest retreats, spa treatments, and more. The nation’s tropical climate, with its warm temperatures and gentle breezes, enhances the relaxing experience. Travelers will start their journey in Puerto Viejo, where they will become acquainted with each other and their leaders. This beachside town is perfect for rest and relaxation. Everyone can explore Cahuita National Park, which is known for its rich biodiversity; it’s home to dense tropical rainforests and extensive coral reefs. At Gandoca-Manzanillo National refuge, the group will see numerous ecosystems along the southern Caribbean coast. Travelers can enjoy an afternoon exploring Puerto Viejo, go biking, or partaking in an optional surf lesson on Playa Negra. There will be a two-day whitewater rafting adventure, with a self-guided walk to waterfalls and natural pools. In addition, a morning will be spent rappelling down four different waterfalls. Afterward, the group will tour a local coffee plantation with a tasting. Depart on the final day.

Surf and Volunteer in Peru

The idea for WAVES originated in 2004 on the beaches of northern Peru, when a group of international surfers shared a desire to help local youth with little resources enjoy surfing. Today it is an established nonprofit and international network offering volunteer learning opportunities for surfers beginning the first and third weekend of every month in Lobitos. Based on your skills, you will contribute in one of the program areas: English and Arts, Environmental Responsibility, Life Skills, Swimming or Surfing and Social Entrepreneurship. If you stay three weeks or more, you will do an additional community service project. Costs are $495 volunteer contribution, plus $295/week.

WAVES FOR DEVELOPMENT

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Help the Unhoused Get Back on their Feet in the US

Back on My Feet is a nonprofit that uses running to help those experiencing homelessness increase their self-esteem. The group’s goal is to ensure that the homeless can make life changes that result in employment and independent living. To volunteer with Back on My Feet, find the nearest chapter and register to run with a local team. Most teams run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 5:30 a.m. Walkers, joggers and runners are all welcome at the organization’s clubs in Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Indianapolis, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington. Volunteers can participate for up to two weeks on this free opportunity.

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Back on My Feet

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Surf with Kids in Capetown, South Africa

Work in an adventure club for 12-14 year old children who come from disadvantaged areas of Cape Town. The club is primarily focused on surfing and swim lessons and volunteers will receive free surf lessons (no surfing exp. necessary but must be able to swim!). Local kids will be taught sports, hikes, life lessons (HIV, drugs, etc.). Volunteers will work with children 2-5 days a week and can spend their mornings relaxing on the beach, learning to surf, or helping out in a school. Afternoons are spent doing activities through the adventure club with 5-20 different children! On the trip, volunteers will be have plenty of free time to explore the beautiful city, Cape Town, and explore Table Mountain National Park, see African Penguins and explore beautiful hiking trails throughout the area!  The min length for this trip is 14 days for $990 and the max length is 8 weeks for $2,730.  Upcoming Departures: Every Friday.

GO ECO

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